By Mike Stoller

There is a good vibe surrounding the Somerville boys’ tennis team, which will try to send the same message this season as it did last year to its Greater Boston League rivals: that it is indeed for real.

“I think this could be a great year, especially if the kids work hard and become more consistent,” said Somerville head coach Michael Morgan, who’s in his third spring at the helm. “All teams in the GBL are tough, so we are working hard to compete with these teams.”

Last season, the Highlanders came through with their best record in years, just missing the state tourney by two matches with a 7-10 record.

“We did not make the tourney, but we’re hoping to achieve that this year,” Morgan said.  “Most of our top varsity players have played at least one season.”

The Highlanders return with much experience with senior captain Rocky Man slated to play in the No. 3 singles slot and fellow senior Ajay Tulachan, a four-year starter and GBL All-Star last spring, playing at No. 2.  Junior newcomer Gabe Logonov won out for the No. 1 slot.

Somerville was scheduled to open the season this week at Latin Academy, a non-league opponent, on Monday. The Highlanders will first hit their home court April 17 against GBL rival Medford, before visiting non-league foe Lynn Classical for their third match April 19.